Best Pool Heaters for Inground Pools & Benefits 2024

    Best Pool Heaters for Inground Pools – Plunging into a pool full of spine-chilling water can turn out to be a bad experience, especially in those months with lower temperatures! If you love to hop into your pool after a tiresome day, then probably you need one of the best pool heaters for in-ground and above-ground pools.

    With a pool heater, you can escalate the temperature of water to make it warm and relaxing. Here we have reviewed and compared some of the top pool heaters in 2024. Check these best pool heater reviews, and get a pool heater that works well with your pool.

    Comparison Table

    Product Link Type Ideal for Type of Pool Ratings
    Pentair Mastertemp 400k BTU Pool Heater Gas Powered In-ground and Above-ground 9.5
    Hayward H150FDN Universal H-Series Pool Heater Gas Powered In-ground and Above-ground 8
    EcoSmart SMART POOL 27 Electric Tankless Pool Heater Electric In-ground and Above-ground 8.5

    Sta-Rite SR400NA Max-E-Therm Pool And Spa Heater

    Gas Powered In-ground and Above-ground 7.5

    FibroPool FH055 In-Ground Swimming Pool Heater

    Electric Above-ground 8.5
    Smartpool S601P SunHeater Solar Heating System for In-Ground Pools Solar In-ground 9

    Hayward HP50TA HeatPro Titanium 50,000 BTU Heat Pump

    Gas Powered In-ground and Above-ground 7.5

    Top 7 Pool Heater Reviews 2024

    Table of Contents

    Here is a list of Best 7 Top Rated Pool Heaters for you, Must read before you buy. 

    #1 EcoSmart SMART POOL 27 Electric Tankless Pool Heater

    Ecosmart Smart Pool 27 Reviews

    Ecosmart Smart Pool 27 – So you don’t need a gas-powered pool water heater? Well, you can go with this electric pool heater that has zero harmful emissions and is easy to use. You can connect the heater with the water pump of the pool to start heating the water.

    Ecosmart Smart Pool 27 – Digital Thermostat

    The electric best pool water heater comes with digital controls. You can rotate the knob to adjust the temperature of the water as per your requirements. Also, there is a digital screen that will keep you updated about the current temperature of the water, so that you can turn off the heater after warming up the water.

    EcoSmart SMART POOL 27 Electric Tankless Pool Heater-BestCartReviews

    Ecosmart Smart Pool 27 – Built-in flow Sensor

    The built-in flow sensor prevents the chances of burned elements. If the water stops pumping inside the heater, then it will turn off the heating process automatically. Sometimes, pool pumps stop working, and in these cases, the pool heater will turn off automatically.

    Ecosmart Smart Pool 27 – Remote Control

    You can use a remote control with this smart pool water heater. Now there is no need to get up from your seat to set the temperature when you can do it right with some clicks on the remote.

    Things We Like

    • Zero harmful emission
    • Quiet operation
    • An ideal alternative to the heat pump
    • No need to refill gas

    Things We Don’t Like

    • Higher electricity bills

    Ecosmart Smart Pool 27 Specifications

    Ignition Type N/A
    Display Digital with Control Buttons
    Volts 240 Volts
    Wattage 27000 watts
    Dimensions 6 x 14 x 17 inches
    Weight 24.2 pounds

    #2 Sta-Rite SR400NA Max-E-Therm Pool And Spa Heater

    Bestseller No. 1
    Thermal Regulator Compatible with MasterTemp and Sta-Rite Pool Spa Heaters, and All SR200 SR333...
    • 【NEEDS】As time goes on, your heater developed a problem where it turns on and off...
    • 【FASTER HEATING】The mastertemp sta rite thermistor has undergone extensive testing, means...
    • 【PREMIUM QUALITY】Long life-span matters, that is why our 77707-0010 thermal regulator is...

    Sta-Rite Pool Heater Reviews

    With Sta-Rite SR400NA Max-E-Therm pool heater, you can heat the water of your swimming pool quickly. This is a gas-powered machine, and you can expect efficient heating with it. Moreover, it is a compact heater, so it will not make your backyard look occupied.

    Sta-Rite Pool Heater – Digital Controls

    Sta-Rite Pool Heater Reviews-BestCartReviews

    SR400NA Max-E-Therm pool heater has digital controls and a digital screen. You can increase or decrease the temperature of water based on the climatic conditions and your needs. Also, you can switch off the heating process by clicking on the stop button available on the digital console.

    Sta-Rite Pool Heater – Low Operational Cost

    The cost of operating this pool heater is something you can easily manage. It will not cost you hundreds and thousands of dollars to heat your pool water. Moreover, the heater is compact and requires less space.

    Sta-Rite Pool Heater – Durable

    When it comes to durability, then the SR400NA Max-E-Therm pool heater will never disappoint you. You can rest assured this pool heater will last longer, and you will get the best value of your money by investing in this quality product.

    Things We Like

    • Affordable to use
    • Durable
    • Smart LED control panel
    • Low harmful emissions
    • Compact

    Things We Don’t Like

    • Produces noise while working

    Sta-Rite Pool Heater Specifications

    Ignition Type Electronic
    Display  Digital with Control Buttons
    Energy efficient YES
    Heat Generation  400,000 BTUs
    Dimensions  34 x 27 x 33 in
    Weight  132 pounds

    #3 FibroPool FH055 In-Ground Swimming Pool Heater

    Bestseller No. 1
    FibroPool Swimming Pool Heat Pump - FH270 70,000 BTU - for Above and In Ground Pools and Spas - High...
    • CLEAN AND GREEN: The FH270 is powered by clean electricity, reducing the harmful environmental...
    • COMPATIBLE WITH: In ground pools up to 15,000 gallons and above ground pools up to 27 foot...
    • HIGH EFFICIENCY: Utilizing high-pressure differential compressors and titanium heat exchangers,...

    FibroPool In-Ground Swimming Pool Heater Reviews

    If you don’t want to skyrocket your electricity bills, then a pool heater is what you should buy. The heat exchanger of the heater is made using titanium, which is durable and works seamlessly without any issues. Additionally, the heat-dissipating fan keeps excess heat away, so the pool heater remains working for longer hours.

    Easy to Install

    FibroPool In-Ground Swimming Pool Heater Reviews-BestCartReviews

    Installing this pool heater doesn’t require any rocket science, and you can install it with the pool pump in some minutes. There is no need to call any professional expert for the installation when you can do it on your own.

    Low Operational Cost

    As per the manufacturer, the cost of operating the FibroPool FH055 pool heater is around 25 cents per hour, which is reasonable. Also, it will not put a huge burden on your monthly electricity bills so you can use it without splurging money.

    Durability At Its Best

    The steel chassis of this pool heater can withstand even the harshest of climatic conditions. The casing will protect the heating element and the fan, which makes FibroPool FH055 a durable pool heater.

    Things We Like

    • Easy to set up
    • Energy efficient
    • Heat dissipation technology
    • Weatherproof

    Things We Don’t Like

    • Bulky

    Specifications

    Ignition Type N/A
    Display  Digital with Control Buttons
    Volts 240 Volts
    Wattage  1500 watts
    Dimensions  48 x 20 x 24 in
    Weight  120 pounds

    #4 Smartpool S601P SunHeater Solar Heating System for In-Ground Pools

    SaleBestseller No. 1
    SmartPool WWSK21 SunHeater Systems Kit,Black
    • Install and operate your Sun heater solar pool heater with the Smart Pool Sun heater Systems...
    • Setup kit can be used with up to four boxes of Sun heater in-ground pool solar heaters
    • Pool accessory kit contains everything you need to complete the installation

    Sunheater Solar Pool Heating System Reviews

    With the Smartpool S601P pool heater, you can heat the pool water naturally using solar energy. This pool heating system doesn’t need any gas or electricity to work. There are solar panels available, and you can install them so that they absorb most of the sunlight available in your area.

    Environmental Friendly

    Smartpool S601P SunHeater Solar Heating System for In-Ground Pools

    When you are using the Smartpool S601P SunHeater pool heater, then you are contributing a lot to the environment. There are no harmful fumes or emissions released by the heater, so there will be less pollution.

    No Operational Cost

    The operational cost of this best pool heater for in-ground pools is next to negligible. You only have to invest one time by buying the pool heater, and then it is free to use. There is no charge on using solar energy, so you can use it daily to heat the water of your swimming pool.
    Ideal for Small and Large Pools

    You can connect multiple solar panels with the heater if you have a large pool. The separate solar panels are available, and you can get them according to the size of the pool. However, you cannot use this solar pool heater for commercial pools.

    Things We Like

    • Eco-friendly
    • Zero operational cost
    • Compatible with multiple solar panels
    • Extended warranty

    Things We Don’t Like

    • Not ideal for above-ground pools
    • Installation can be tricky

    Specifications

    Ignition Type N/A
    Display  N/A
    Type Solar
    Dimensions  48 x 1 x 240 in
    Weight  29 pounds

    #5 Hayward HP50TA HeatPro Titanium 50,000 BTU Heat Pump

    Bestseller No. 1
    Hayward Pool Heater, 140,000 BTU (W3HP21404T), Tan
    • The Hayward HeatPro 140,000 BTU Heat Pump quietly and economically maintains ideal water...
    • Ultra Gold corrosion-resistant evaporator fin offers unparalleled durability, even in harsh...
    • Titanium counter-flow heat exchanger ensures maximum heat transfer and provides excellent salt...

    Hayward Titanium Heatpro Heat Pump Reviews

    Hayward HP50TA is the last pool heater of this list, which was tested by our team. If you have a medium-sized pool, then you can go with this pool heater due to the enormous list it benefits it offers. The all-digital console makes it easier to set the ideal temperature while you heat the pool’s water.

    Titanium Heat Exchanger

    The titanium heat exchanger heats up the water quickly while saving you a lot of money. Also, the heat exchanger is durable and can last longer without any issues. If durability is your first concern, then you can go with this pool heater.

    Hayward HP50TA HeatPro Titanium 50,000 BTU Heat Pump-BestCartReviews

    Resistant to Corrosion

    We often see that pool heater get corroded as they remain exposed to the water most of the time. But this is not the case with this pool heater. It can resist corrosion and rust up to some extent. Also, the chassis can prevent chemical reactions making it a safe option.

    Powerful Heat Pump

    The powerful heat pump can generate heat up to 50,000 BTUs, which can heal up the water quickly. If you have a small pool, then you can buy the 45,000 BTUs option manufactured by Hayward.

    Things We Like

    • Compact
    • Easy to install
    • Reliable heat exchanger
    • Quiet operation
    • Corrosion-resistant

    Things We Don’t Like

    • BTU output is somehow less

    #6 Pentair 460805 MasterTemp High-Performance Eco-Friendly Pool Heater

    Bestseller No. 1
    Pentair EC-462024 -Natural Gas 125K Heater - Limited Warranty
    • High-performance, affordable heater with premium features
    • 82% energy efficiency is highest in class
    • 1-1/2 in. Plumbing connection -- ideal for smaller bodies of water, including aboveground...
    Bestseller No. 2
    MasterTemp EC-462028 Pool Heater, Almond
    • Built to last with tough rust proof exterior
    • Premix combustion technology for fast and efficient warm-ups
    • Built in safety features to ensure system protection
    SaleBestseller No. 3
    MasterTemp EC-462027 Heaters, Almond and Black
    • Built to last with tough rust proof exterior
    • Premix combustion technology for fast and efficient warm-ups
    • Built in safety features to ensure system protection

    Pentair Mastertemp 400k BTU Pool Heater Reviews

    Pentair Mastertemp 400k BTU Pool Heater – If you don’t want to wait for too long to get the pool’s water hot and relaxing, then this pool water heater is what you need! Pentair 460805 is a gas-powered machine so you can expect efficient heating from it. Also, it can generate heat up to 400,000 BTUs, which makes it ideal for heating water in bigger swimming pools.

    Lower Emissions

    You can rest assured that this best natural gas heater will not pollute the environment. Pentair 460805 comes with low emission certification, and you can use it with your home pool. Also, the pool heater is ideal for commercial pools that are not very big in size.

    Pentair Mastertemp 400k BTU Pool Heater Reviews-BestCartReviews

    Durable

    A pool water heater remains outside of the roof, sustaining harsh weather and heat. Thankfully, Pentair 460805 is a durable pool heater, and it can easily sustain the test of time. From handle to the body, everything is durable and made using top-notch material.

    Quick Heating

    This gas-powered pool water heater can heat the water quickly with its excessive generation of heat in less time. Now there is no need to wait for hours to get the water warm when you can do it quickly with Pentair 460805.

    Things We Like

    • Ideal for small and big swimming pools
    • Handy digital controls
    • Energy efficient
    • Durable and corrosion-resistant

    Things We Don’t Like

    • Expensive

    Specifications

    Ignition Type Electronic
    Display Digital with Control Buttons
    Energy efficient YES
    Heat Generation 400,000 BTUs
    Dimensions 36 x 25 x 30 inches
    Weight 127 pounds

    #7 Hayward H150FDN Universal H-Series Pool Heater

    Bestseller No. 1
    Hayward Pool Heater, 400,000 BTU (W3H400FDP), Tan
    • The Hayward Universal H-Series 400,000 BTU Propane Heater delivers premium heating performance...
    • A durable cupro nickel heat exchanger offers exceptional protection against corrosion and...
    • Industry-leading hydraulic design reduces circulation pump run time to provide major energy...

    Hayward H150FDN Pool Heater Reviews

    Here is another gas-powered pool water heater, which is ideal for small pools and spas. The digital console of the heater makes it easy to use. Also, the heater has lesser emissions and meets with the regulatory standards norms.

    Hayward H150FDN – Efficient Heating

    The pool water heater can heat the water efficiently. It can heat nearly 800-gallons of water by approximately 30-degrees in less than an hour. So you don’t have to run the machine for hours to get the pool water warm and soothing.

    Hayward H150FDN Pool Heater Reviews-BestCartReviews

    Hayward H150FDN – Digital Controls

    There is a digital console available, and you can use it to regulate the temperature of the water. The console even features a shut-off button, and you can turn the heater off after heating the pool water.

    Hayward H150FDN – Easy to Set Up

    Setting up the Hayward H150FDN pool heater doesn’t require any rocket science, and you can set it up on the go. The universal design makes it straightforward to use it with your swimming pool, so there is no need to call an expert for your assistance.

    Things We Like

    • Fairly priced
    • Quick heating
    • Energy efficient
    • Handy design

    Things We Don’t Like

    • Produces noise while heating

    Specifications

    Ignition Type Electronic
    Display Digital with Control Buttons
    Energy efficient YES
    Heat Generation 150,000 BTUs
    Dimensions 31.4 x 26.7 x 23.5 inches
    Weight 110 pounds

    Buying Guide: Factors to Consider While Buying the Best Pool Heaters for Inground Pools

    There are tons of essential factors you need to consider while buying a pool water heater. If you want to get the most for your money, then it is imperative to consider these factors.

    Type of Pool Heater

    The first thing that you should consider is the type of pool heater you need. Generally, there are three types of pool heaters available in the market:

    • Gas-powered pool heaters
    • Electric pool heaters
    • Solar pool heaters

    Gas Powered Pool Heaters

    Gas-powered pool heaters are ideal for you if you want to heat up the water quickly. These machines are efficient in heating as they use natural gas. However, you have to deal with the noise produced by the heater. Also, operating a gas-powered pool heater will cost you more money.

    Electric Pool Heaters

    Electric pool heaters are a reliable option as compared to gas-powered heaters. There are no harmful emissions at all, and the noise is also less. You can use an electric pool heater daily as it doesn’t cost much.

    Solar Pool Heaters

    Solar pool heaters are the best when it comes to saving the environment. These heaters require no gas or electricity at all, and you can use the sunlight to heat up your swimming pool. The only downside of a solar pool heater is that it takes a lot of time to heat the pool. Moreover, you cannot use them with bigger pools.

    Type of Pool

    Do you have an in-ground pool or an above-ground pool? Well, the choice of the best pool heater will depend on the type of swimming pool you have. There are some pool heaters that work well with both types of pools, but it is ideal for making sure that you are buying the right pool water heater based on the type of swimming pool.

    Ease of Installation

    Most of the pool heaters available out there are easy to install, and you don’t need any professional installer to install them. However, it would be great to pick a pool water heater by checking its installation type.

    Generally, solar pool heaters are a bit tedious to install as you have to install the solar panels as well while joining them with the heater body.

    Budget

    The last factor that will impact the purchase of a pool water heater is your budget. The cheapest pool heaters available right now are solar heaters. You have to spend more to buy electric and gas-powered pool water heaters.

    Benefits of Using Pool Water Heaters 2024

    Buying anything without reason is of no use, and you will surely go for a pool water heater after knowing the immense benefits it offers.

    Extended Pool Season

    Hoping into a pool full of spine-chilling water can lead to daunting experience. With a pool heater, you can make the water warm so that you can plunge into the pool even if it is cold outside. If you want access to your pool throughout the year, then a pool heater is the need of the hour.

    Durable

    Pool water heaters are durable, and most of them can last really long. When you are buying a pool heater, then you will get the assurance of a decent lifespan with it. All types of pool water heaters are durable, provided that you are buying a branded device. All the pool heaters listed here come with long-lasting lifespan so you can pick any of these without thinking twice.

    A Rewarding Investment

    Investing in a pool heater can be rewarding as you can spend most of your time relaxing in your pool. In these times, when the governments have implied lock down, you cannot go anywhere. With a pool heater, you can heat up the water to enjoy a refreshing bath in your home while you are quarantined.

    Best Pool Heater FAQs

    Is a pool heater worth it ?

    Yes, buying a pool water heater can turn out to be a rewarding choice because of the fact that you can use your pool in all seasons. No matter whether it is cold outside, you can still enjoy a relaxing bath in your pool. Best pool heaters are available for different prices, and you can even get one while sticking to your budget.

    In short, if you have a swimming pool in your home, then you should invest in a pool heater.

    What is the best way to heat a pool ?

    We all know that a pool contains hundreds of gallons of water, and heating it is not like heating water in a pan. The best way to heat a pool is by getting a pool heater. Some pool heaters can quickly warm up the water, so you can plunge into hot water whenever you need.

    Should I run the pool heater overnight ?

    It entirely depends on the type of pool heater you are using. If you have an electric pool heater that takes more time in heating the pool, then running it overnight could be a great idea. However, most of the advanced pool heaters can heat up the pool quickly, so running them overnight is not necessary.

    What Size Heater Should You Buy ?

    You should buy a pool water heater based on the size of your swimming pool. If you have a massive pool, then you need a powerful pool heater that can heat up the water easily. We suggest you not to go with solar pool heaters if you have a bigger pool.

    How do you winterize a pool heater ?

    Wintering the pool heater is an essential task to fortify it from the freezing temperature. Here is a simple checklist you can follow to winterize the pool heater properly.

    Things You Need to Winterize Your Pool

    Scale deterrent
    Air compressor
    Algae protection

    Step 1

    You should start by draining and cleaning the entire pool. Now turn off the power unit to make sure that the major power supply is cut, and the heater is in a non-working state.

    Step 2

    Remove the drain plugs you find in the pool heater, and then start draining all the water standing inside the heater. Keep the removed plugs into the cleaning basket. Clean them using detergent and then install again securely in place.

    Step 3

    Now use the air compressor to blow out the remaining water from the pool heater. Pumping in the air will make sure to remove even the tiniest of water standing in the heater.

    A Pro Tip:

    Make sure that you don’t remove the heater tray from the pool heater because installing it back is not an easy task. You can leave the tray as it is because there will be no damages to the heater due to the tray.

    If you have a compact pool heater, then you can store it somewhere inside your storage room.

    What is the most energy-efficient pool heater ?

    The most energy-efficient pool heater is a solar pool heater. You don’t have to connect it with the power outlet as it uses solar energy to heat up the water. If you don’t want to spend more on using a pool heater, then go for the best solar pool heater available in the market.

    How much does the maintenance cost ?

    The cost of maintaining a solar pool heater depends on the type of heater you are using. If you have a solar pool heater, then the maintenance is next to zero. On the other hand, gas-powered and electric pool heaters require some maintenance, but the cost is bearable.

    Which pool heater is right for you ?

    Choosing the right solar pool heater can be a daunting task as there are multiple types of pool heaters available in the market. However, here is a quick explanation that may help.

    Solar pool heater: A solar pool heater should be your choice if you don’t want to pay the electricity and gas bills. Also, solar pool heaters are less expensive, but take a lot of time in heating the pool.

    Electric pool heater: Electric pool heaters can heat the pool quickly, but these are quite expensive. Also, using an electric pool heater is expensive as compared to solar pool heaters.

    Gas-powered pool heater: Gas-powered pool heaters are the most efficient when it comes to heating the pool water. You can use any natural gas-powered pool heater to heat the swimming pool in some hours.

    But gas-powered heaters are expensive, and using them is also expensive as compared to electric and solar pool heaters.

    Summary

    These are some of the best pool heaters reviews based on our research. You can choose the type of pool heater based on your requirements and budget. We suggest you go through the buying guide so that you can get a better idea of what a pool heater does and the factors you need to consider while buying one.

    The best pool heater of this list is Pentair 460805 MasterTemp High-Performance Eco-Friendly Pool Heater. However, if you have a limited budget, then you can go with Smartpool S601P SunHeater Solar Heating System.

    Also, Read Relevant Best Product Reviews by BestCartReviews 

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    From the heart of New York, David Ra brings his expertise to BestCartReviews.com. Having studied journalism at NYU, he knows what makes a good story. But here, he's all about the details. David has a special talent: he can take complex products and explain them in a way anyone can understand. When he's not diving deep into product reviews, he's exploring classic books or promoting eco-friendly choices. If you've ever read a review on BestCartReviews and thought, "This makes so much sense!", chances are, David had a hand in it. For clarity and depth, trust David's reviews.

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